The next morning, the Azure Dragon Palace was alive.
Servants moved in disciplined streams, robes flashing in shades of blue and gold. Guards shifted positions with sharpened vigilance. Orders were given, received, executed without pause.
The banquet preparations had begun. And with them... tension.
°°
At the heart of the palace, within the main throne hall sat Jun Yongrui.
Draped in deep azure and gold, his presence alone filled the vast chamber. The carved dragons along the pillars seemed almost subdued beneath him, as if even stone recognized its king.
Below him stood the court.
Advisors. Elders. Officials. All waiting.
"We welcome Your Majesty." Fang Lingbo who was the headmaster of the celestial beast academy stepped forward, bowing low, his tone respectful. "We trust your journey to the Sky Palace was… fruitful."
Jun Yongrui's cold disinterested gaze lowered to him.
"And?" The single word landed heavily.
